UT Arlington student-athletes joined coaches in volunteering at the 2015 Special Olympics held on the UTA campus in a four-day event.

The festivities include seven sports, featuring track & field, basketball, cycling, equestrian, gymnastics, soccer and tennis with more than 3,000 athletes competing in The American Dream City.

Helping officiate the basketball tournament held at the Maverick Activities Center were coaches from the women's basketball team, volleyball senior Caitlyn Cooney and men's basketball senior Drew Charles.

"Working the Special Olympics was truly amazing," UTA women's assistant coach Kristin Cole said. "It was an honor to work with the athletes and give back to the sport I love. I was so impressed with all of the athletes, their coaches and all the people who make the Special Olympics happen."

Charles volunteered for the event prior while a student Azle High School. He welcomed the opportunity to do so again.

"When I found out that the Special Olympics were at UTA I knew I wanted to help out," Charles said. "Getting to referee some basketball games and hang out with the athletes was great. I hope they enjoyed the time as much as I did."

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